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What is relay theft and why is it a problem?

Relay theft, also referred to as keyless car theft is becoming a growing problem in the UK. Criminals can exploit a vulnerability in keyless car entry and start systems using a digital theft technique called the relay attack. Due to the simplicity and ease of doing this more and more criminals are starting to use it. According to leading publications such as the BBC these hacking devices can be bought for as little as £100 online and when used can take as little as 20-30 seconds to be successful.

Consumer watchdog Which? Conducted a study where they found
that 4 out of the 5 most popular vehicles on the UK road were susceptible to
this new auto theft technique. These include the ford Fiesta, Volkswagon Golf
and Nissan Qashqai. The problem was not limited only to these cars with brands
in the premium market experiencing the same problem on more occasions. Light commercial vehicles are also becoming
targets with many suggesting that the tools they hold maintain a certain value.

Keyless car theft is a growing concern and measures should
be taken to avoid or at least reduce the chances of it happening to you.

Why do we need driveway sensors?

Preventing keyless entry

Individuals should increase the level of security around
there home. Driveway sensors, motion sensors and floodlights should be
installed. As with other crimes criminals don’t like an audience or light shone
on their activities. With a whole range of smart and non-smart home security
devices on the market, homes can be quickly and affordably transformed to more
secure premises.

Most individuals understandably mentioned not being aware their car was being stolen. Though many had CCTV cameras installed this merely provided evidence of what had gone on the night before. From those interviewed a high proportion agreed a notification was needed in some capacity.

Driveway sensors are a simple, yet effective method to deter
car theft. Not only do they act as a visual deterrent; when a PIR sensor is
activated a signal is sent to a receiver inside the home which provides a clear
audio and visual notification. This simply draws attention to what is happening
outside.